Head of Trade

Booker Wellingborough, England, United KingdomThe information below covers the role requirements, expected candidate experience, and accompanying qualifications.Join or sign in to find your next jobJoin to apply for the Head of Trade - Produce role at BookerBooker Group is recruiting for a Head of Trade for Produce. In this role, you will manage a strategic, high-profile Category with full end-to-end accountability for the delivery of Sales, customer, and Profit targets.You will be part of the Senior team with day-to-day responsibility for Direct Reports and a broader Team of Category Managers, Assistant Buyers, and Category Assistants. This role covers a complex supply base with multiple need states and involves strategic projects related to Retail and Catering, such as Supply Chain transformation, requiring cross-functional stakeholder engagement and leadership.About the roleManage a strategic category, oversee negotiations, develop and implement category plans, and deliver key metrics for Catering and Retail. Lead the category team, manage performance, and support diversity and inclusion initiatives. Drive growth of Own Brand, optimize product ranges, and collaborate with senior management on opportunities and process improvements. Ensure sustainable practices and uphold ethical standards.ResponsibilitiesAnnual negotiations with suppliers to ensure competitive terms and coaching team where appropriateDevelopment and implementation of category plans to meet key metricsDelivery of profit and customer satisfaction targetsEnsure high inbound Supplier Service LevelsDevelop strategic plans and work cross-functionally to deliver themLead and develop the category team, managing performance and talent developmentGrow Own Brand business through sourcing and innovationOptimize product range distribution across estatesIdentify opportunities for process improvement and innovationCollaborate with Finance for accurate forecastingPromote sustainability and reduce environmental impactUphold company values, integrity, diversity, and ethical standardsEnsure negotiations adhere to GSCOP guidelinesDeputize for the Director of Trading when neededRequirementsExperience in Category Management in ProduceIn-depth Supply Chain knowledgeExceptional communication and stakeholder management skillsUnderstanding of Branch and Network processesExperience with multi-site customers and key accountsStrategic, analytical, and problem-solving skillsLeadership skills to develop talent and drive performanceDegree level educationSkilled negotiator with supplier management experienceExperience with supply base reviews and strategic sourcingUnderstanding of group buying and stakeholder engagementProven ability to work autonomously and deliver resultsWhat’s in it for you?Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including employee discounts, insurance, health and wellbeing support, share schemes, pension, life assurance, and flexible working options. We promote diversity and an inclusive culture where everyone is welcome.About UsBooker is the UK's leading food & drink wholesaler, serving independent retailers, caterers, and small businesses across the country. We operate numerous branches and support centres UK-wide. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a welcoming environment for all employees.We are a Disability Confident employer and support accessible recruitment processes. For accessibility support, contact Please note: Candidates must be over 18 for roles involving early/late shifts or warehouse work. High-volume applications may close early. We only provide interview feedback to shortlisted candidates. xpwpeyx Booker Group is part of Tesco plc but operates separately; benefits differ from Tesco.For more information, visit detailsSeniority level: DirectorEmployment type: Full-timeJob function: OtherIndustries: Wholesale#J-18808-Ljbffr